Hydrogenated Styrene/Isoprene Copolymer

Good

Emulsifier

No known benefits

Hydrogenated Styrene/Isoprene Copolymer at a glance

  • Synthetic polymer
  • Film-forming, opacifying, and viscosity-controlling agent
  • Also an emulsifier
  • Ruled safe as used in cosmetics
  • Usage levels range from 0.89-4.2%

Hydrogenated Styrene/Isoprene Copolymer description

Hydrogenated styrene-isoprene copolymer is a synthetic polymer that serves multiple functions in cosmetics, among them as a film-forming, opacifying, viscosity-controlling and emulsifying agent. It adds water-repelling and also helps suspend other ingredients in gel and clear formulas. Known for its large molecule size, studies have shown hydrogenated styrene-isoprene copolymer is not likely to penetrate skin’s upper layers. The independent Cosmetics Ingredient Panel has ruled it is safe as currently applied in cosmetics, where usage levels typically range from 0.89–4.2%

Hydrogenated Styrene/Isoprene Copolymer references

  • SpecialChem, Accessed March 2023, Website
  • UL Prospector, Accessed March 2023, Website
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, October 2014, ePublication

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.